Question

For e-governance to be sustainable, what condition must be met regarding its cost?

• A. The cost must be high to ensure quality.
• B. The cost should be low enough to ensure a good cost-to-benefit ratio.
• C. The cost should be comparable to traditional governance methods.
• D. The cost should only cover initial setup expenses.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The cost should be low enough to ensure a good cost-to-benefit ratio.

• Financial Feasibility: The expenses for developing, implementing, and maintaining an e-governance system must be justified by its benefits. If the costs are too high and the benefits—like improved efficiency, reduced corruption, and citizen convenience—don't outweigh them, the project is not financially viable and won't be sustained.

• Long-Term Investment: E-governance is a long-term investment. While the initial setup costs are high, the ongoing costs of operation, maintenance, and upgrades must be manageable. A good cost-to-benefit ratio ensures the project continues to receive funding and support over the years.

• Public and Political Support: A positive cost-to-benefit ratio helps secure political support and public trust. When a project is clearly saving money and delivering tangible benefits, it's easier to justify its existence and secure the necessary budget, making it more resilient to political changes and financial pressures.